Key facts
- Jackdaw gas field holds 40 million barrels of oil equivalent.
- Adura, a joint venture between Shell and Equinor, owns Jackdaw and Rosebank.
- The approval is expected to save hundreds of jobs.
- Rosebank oil field is larger and more complex than Jackdaw.
- The UK government plans to codify a moratorium on new drilling projects.
The UK has approved the development of the Jackdaw gas field, a decision that comes after a four-year regulatory process marked by legal challenges and changes in government leadership. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh granted the final approval on Wednesday, citing the project's potential to bolster domestic energy security, create jobs, and allow for controlled emissions. The Jackdaw field, located off the coast of Aberdeen, contains an estimated 40 million barrels of oil equivalent. The approval was granted to Adura, a joint venture between Shell and Norway's Equinor. The decision contrasts with the likely rejection of the nearby Rosebank oil field, which Fahnbulleh is reportedly considering due to its higher environmental impact and less direct contribution to UK energy supplies. The government's approach is described as 'pragmatic,' balancing energy needs with climate considerations.